seven

ml is what some of you knew as thine eyes that started as an industrial project back in 1991. my first mention of new ml sound was n5md compilation review. this time, it's a full-length cd released on toast and jam recordings.

idm of "pajama party" is a combination of crispy percussion with dislocated and broken beats, supported by softer analog touches. the band seems to work in more abrasive side of idm, playing around with intricate percussion textures and at times heavier disjointed sound. the result is still very rich, melodic and at times deeply atmospheric. melody and richness of sound is what attracted me initially in ml's work, and it seems they explore this a little further on this album, playing more with contrast of multiple abrasive elements and simple analog elements.

what bothers me a little is the overall attitude of the band, that is either afraid or unable to take themselves seriously. naturally, good humor (and plain old fun) never hurts, but on few tracks ("take that, pants") unexpected cheesiness suddenly surfaces and really hurts the band's image.

for the most part I really enjoyed this album, and my only wish remains more "professional" (for the lack of better word) attitude towards marketing, packaging and overall disk atmosphere (maybe it's just my overexposure to dark electro is speaking). each track is a sonic candy that rewards attentive listener with carefully constructed aural images, when each sound acquires shape and texture, shining on its own. at the same time the sound possesses melodic and emotional (be it a happy or a sad one) touch. every track has something unique and different to offer, from various layered percussion textures to beautifully crafted melodic lines.